SILHILLIANS are being urged to keep meeting with friends throughout the winter, despite the ongoing cost-of-living challenges.
Birmingham Oddfellows, which holds social in and around Solihull has spoken about the importance of staying social and the positive impact it has on physical and mental wellbeing.
District secretary Liz Blackhurst said: “Last winter was hard on people’s pockets and wellbeing. Struggles around the increased cost of living meant many had to make significant cutbacks.
“At the Oddfellows, we believe friendship is an essential, particularly when times are tough and during winter when we can feel more isolated. Company provides comfort and support, and has to be prioritised.
“A good chat can bring light relief and help ease worries, and being able to share a problem might offer a new perspective.”
The local friendship group, which is mostly made up of retired members, also wants to remind people that socialising doesn’t need to be expensive.
Liz said: “When you’re stretched financially, you’ve no choice but to look at how you can spend less. But it’s not where you get together that matters, just that you’re getting together – whether that’s meeting up in the park with a flask, at each other’s homes or in the local library.
“With our group meet-ups, we make sure that there are as few barriers to friendship as possible and we make them as affordable and accessible as we can.”
Birmingham Oddfellows is preparing to host a Cuppa and Chat event at the Royal British Legion in Solihull on December 21 from 2pm until 3.30pm.
For more or to request an events diary, contact Liz on 0121 705 5626 or [email protected] or click here.
